MOSCOW: The Russian prime minister and entire government resigned on Wednesday as part of sweeping constitutional changes that could see President Vladimir Putin extend his hold on power.

In a televised announcement, outgoing Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said the government was resigning to give president room to carry out constitutional changes.

Putin, in his annual address to parliament, proposed a referendum on amending Russia’s constitution to increase the powers of parliament – while maintaining a strong presidential system.

Prime Minister Medvedev, who tendered his resignation to Putin, will be appointed the new deputy head of Russia’s influential Security Council. He had been the PM for eight years.

(Agencies)